Cotton

Abstract

AbstractThe use of cotton predates recorded history. Cotton fiber is the most important natural vegetable textile fiber used in spinning to produce apparel, home furnishings and industrial products. About 80 countries produce cotton. Cultivation and production of cotton are discussed. In it marketed form, raw cotton consists of masses of fibers packaged in bales of 85–230 kg (187–507 lb). Cottonseed, world's number 5 oilseed, can be fed as whole seed or crushed into oil. Cotton types and fiber biosynthesis are discussed. Classification is a standardized set of procedures for measuring the quality/physical attributes of raw cotton fiber. Yarn manufacture, weaving and knitting are the steps in textile manufacture. Chemical modifications have assisted in building cotton's position in the marketplace. Health and safety issues include respiratory disease, skin irritation, and the effect of formaldehyde, a component of resins used to treat fabrics. Modern technology has enable efficiency in cotton production with a view to protecting habitats and biodiversity. Cotton is considered a food crop in the U.S. and is regulated as such.